RS Library's Mending Receives OOT Grant

In recent years, the Roaring Spring Community Library has transitioned from a place to check out books into a community outreach center.

While the traditional library service of lending books is still its centerpiece, the library has implemented programs to help the community with clothing, food, referral services, gardening classes, and just about anything library Director Michelle McIntyre can think up.

One program, “Mending Patches,” which teaches youths and their caregiver sewing skills was recently awarded a grant through Operation Our Town.

McIntyre said the Mending Patches program is designed to give confidence to young people and the ability to express themselves through their fashion.

McIntyre said when people look good they feel better about themselves and are more confident. She said pride in personal appearance can lead to better mental health and even personal success.

McIntyre said people who participate in the Mending Patches program take donated clothes and fix them up, put on patches and make repairs.

“They make the clothes their own,” McIntyre said.

McIntyre said the library looks at the needs of the community and tries to tailor programs and services to fit them.

McIntyre said Mending Patches teaches a skill that is no longer part of most school’s curriculum with the demise of home economics classes.

“It teaches something that is no longer taught in most high schools,” she said.

McIntyre said Mending Patches not only teaches sewing skills, it inspires creativity among its participants and provides a boost to their self-esteem.

“When you have clothes that you feel good in, it helps you feel better about yourself,” she said.

The Mending Patches program is designed for children ages eight and up and their caregivers. The program runs in three-week sessions and meets on Monday evenings from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.